The concept of detoxifying the body has become popular in the modern era. But if we take a closer look, we’ll find that Ayurvedic vaidyas have been touting the benefits detoxification for thousands of years. Unlike modern detoxification goals, however, when using Ayurveda for detox , you are not limited to the digestive system and body — to function smoothly, effectively, and without impairment, the body, mind, and spirit must all be in harmony. Ama , Agni and Detoxification If we look at digestion through an Ayurvedic lens, we would understand that finding balance through the right kinds of foods, a centered lifestyle, and de-stressing techniques would all contribute to good health. The Sanskrit word for this harmonious state is Agni , the first word written in the Vedas. Its antithesis is Ama , which points to a toxic buildup. Ama results not only from dietary issues, but also from emotional, mental, and spiritual imbalances. Fortunately, Ayurveda has a prescription that has
“Each morning, we are born again. What we do today is what matters most.” – Anonymous.
Do you ever feel like you’re running around all day and don’t have time for yourself? Or is it hard to get out of bed? A daily routine is very important in Ayurveda to help regulate and balance you. It is necessary to optimize your health on a physical, mental, and emotional level. A daily routine aids in balancing your Dosha and not feeling stressed. It can aid your digestion from absorption to assimilation of food to not build up Ama (toxins) in our fat cells. Having a daily routine is essential for the body and mind. It can help keep a positive attitude, happiness, and relaxation.
Your body is a clock, made up of smaller turning gears. Each of these gears are your organs. It is valuable to oil the gears of the clock to have it optimally functioning and not run out of batteries.
Your mind and body seek regularity. We know as professionals and students having a daily routine can often be difficult. However, irregularity in sleep, eating at different times of the day (either too much or too little), stress from a job or a class, and irregular water intake can unsettle us more. This is why it is even more valuable in creating a daily routine sleeping, eating, eliminating, and/ or doing just one little thing every day.
A way to start having a daily routine is to have a daily practice. Choose one thing you want to begin committing to yourself. This can be waking up at a certain time, having a nature sit-spot, eat vegetables, meditating for ten minutes, working out (etc.) From here you can begin to commit to a full daily routine.
In Ayurveda there are two principles to create a Dinacharya (daily routine) off of: your biological clock (when each organ is working at its best) and your doshic clock (when each dosha is working at its best). The three Doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha), based on the elements are an individual’s mental, emotional, and physical characteristics.
Your gut health relies on regularity. In your microbiome, your intestinal flora and bacteria get attuned to what you are eating and learn to break down those foods accordingly. If you eat on a schedule your body will know how to prepare for digestion even before you eat. If you eat irregularly and chemically processed foods your gut health will be diminished. Gut health is Ayurveda’s key to healing.
Daily Routine Tips:
- Try to wake up early
Ayurveda recommends getting up before the sun. Right when you wake up try to not look at your phone or technology. For Winter there is no need to get up as early. It is suggested for winter to get up around 7:00 am
- Try saying a prayer or mantra
- Wash your face, mouth and eyes
With water splash your face a few times to rejuvenate and wake yourself up. Swish water in your mouth and rub your eyes gently.
- Drink a glass of warm water
This water will help wash your gastrointestinal tract.
- Clean you teeth and tongue. Gargle sesame oil, and apply nose drops (nasya).
- Small personal oil massage
Improves circulation and sleep, prevents headaches, and keeps the body smooth.
- Bath or Shower
- Cleans your body, refreshing, and brings energy and alertness.
- Exercise
Everyone should strive to have some movement in their day. A morning walk, some yoga, stretching, surfing, or a strenuous workout.
- Meditation
- Eat regularly and warming, cooked foods for winter
- Go to sleep early. To aid in sleep stop using technology 1 hour before sleep.
- Try to add something small in your day that is just for you: read, take five-minutes alone, or go into nature.
Tips for winter:
- Be slower and don’t rush as winter is a time of turning inward.
- Oil: Sesame oil. It’s warming and cleansing.
- Try not to nap as it can increase feeling lethargic.
- Stay home, contemplate, meditate.
A recommended breakfast in winter:
Oatmeal with turmeric (anti-inflammatory), fresh ginger (awakens digestive fire and improves assimilation), flaxseed (essential fatty-acids which helps to lower cholesterol), and a tablespoon of Ghee.
Ghee, clarified butter, is one of the healthiest forms of fat. It helps calm the nerves and it lubricates the gut lining, which helps detoxification and absorption of nutrients.
Optional: maca powder (Increases energy and libido) and chia seeds (fiber, omega 3’s).
https://santacruzayurveda.com/daily-routine-in-winter/⛄
Also read : An Ayurvedic Guide to Winter
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